4/30/14

Rihanna's semi-naked photographic romp hasn't gone down well with everyone.

The singer stripped down for a photo shoot for the second time this month and posted the images on Instagram account on Tuesday.

But the social networking site removed them an hour later because the pictures violated their rules against nudity, reports TMZ.

The Diamonds singer had posted the uncensored topless - and bottomless - pictures from her Lui shoot, which Instagram said was a violation of their terms of service.

The star shared a picture of herself topless on the cover of French magazine Lui, in which she appears in just a hat and tiny pair of briefs.

However, nudity, partial nudity or sexually suggestive photographs are banned on Instagram and the social media platform temporarily closed her account until the risqué picture was removed.

'If you wouldn’t show the photo or video you are thinking about uploading to a child, or your boss, or your parents, you probably shouldn’t share it on Instagram,' it states in Instagram’s community guidelines.

'The same rule applies to your profile photo. Accounts found sharing nudity or mature content will be disabled and your access to Instagram may be discontinued.'

However, the temporary disabling of the singer's Instagram account didn't deter her as she posted the snaps to her Twitter account shortly after.

And in a witty retort to Instagram she mocked up a more matronly image of herself captioned: 'Rih's next magazine cover if it was up to Instagram.'

In her raciest photoshoot yet, Rihanna brazenly displayed her naked derriere in the revealing shots.

She is seen lying on her stomach beside a swimming pool, her behind on show for all to see.

In another, she wears just a net black G-string as she perches on the edge of a diving board.

Rihanna proudly shared the image on her Twitter and Instagram pages, tweeting: ‘I am the G in Vogue!! Is it too late now?’ referring to the fact her head covers up one of the letters in the magazine’s logo.

The spread for French magazine Lui comes after the 26-year-old took her clothes off for Vogue Brazil, which hit the shelves just last week.

Bob Hoskins, British Actor, Dies at 71

LONDON (NYT) — Bob Hoskins never lost his Cockney accent, even as he became a global star who charmed and alarmed audiences in a vast range of roles.

Short and bald, with a face he once compared to "a squashed cabbage," Hoskins was a remarkably versatile performer. As a London gangster in "The Long Good Friday," he moved from bravura bluster to tragic understatement. In "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," he cavorted with a cast of animated characters, making technological trickery seem seamless and natural.

A family statement released Wednesday said Hoskins had died in a hospital the night before after a bout of pneumonia. He was 71 and had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2012.

Helen Mirren, who starred alongside Hoskins in "The Long Good Friday," called him "a great actor and an even greater man. Funny, loyal, instinctive, hard-working, with that inimitable energy that seemed like a spectacular firework rocket just as it takes off."

"I personally will miss him very much, London will miss one of her best and most loving sons, and Britain will miss a man to be proud of," Mirren said.

The 5'6" (1.68 meters tall) Hoskins, who was built like a bullet, specialized in tough guys with a soft center, including the ex-con who chaperones Cathy Tyson's escort in Neil Jordan's 1986 film "Mona Lisa." Hoskins was nominated for a best-actor Academy Award for the role.

"Neil Jordan's 'Mona Lisa' and Bob Zemeckis' 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit' were just two of the films that showed Bob Hoskins' tremendous range," said Steven Spielberg, who produced "Roger Rabbit" and later directed Hoskins in his Peter Pan tale "Hook."

"He was an actor who loved to work and the work loved him. And so did every audience," Spielberg said.

Hoskins' breakout Hollywood role was as a detective investigating cartoon crime in "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," a tribute to hard-boiled 1940s entertainment that was one of the first major movies to meld animation and live action. The 1988 Robert Zemeckis film was a huge global success that won three Oscars and helped revive animated filmmaking.

"For all the special effects and technical wizardry, it was Bob's honesty and the truth of his performance that made the animated characters believable — and that was a testament to his real talent," said Zemeckis.

Born in 1942 in eastern England, where his mother had moved to escape wartime bombing, Hoskins was raised in a working-class part of north London. He left school at 15, worked at odd jobs including circus fire-eater and claimed he got his break as an actor by accident — while watching a friend audition, he was handed a script and asked to read.

"I got the lead in the play," Hoskins told the BBC in 1988. "I've never been out of work since."

Hoskins initially worked in theater, but began getting television and film roles in the 1970s. He came to attention in Britain as star of "Pennies from Heaven," Dennis Potter's 1978 TV miniseries about a Depression-era salesman whose imagination sprouts elaborate musical numbers. It was later turned into a movie starring Steve Martin.

His movie breakthrough came in 1980 thriller "The Long Good Friday," playing an East End gangster hoping to profit from redevelopment of London's docks. It contained one of Hoskins' most memorable speeches, a Cockney-accented dismissal of American culture: "What I'm looking for is someone who can contribute to what England has given to the world: culture, sophistication, genius. A little bit more than an 'ot dog, know what I mean?"

The film, which also featured a young Pierce Brosnan, is ranked 21 in the British Film Institute's list of the top 100 British films of the 20th century.

Hoskins worked in films big and small, mainstream and independent. Some were acclaimed, including factory worker story "Made in Dagenham" or "Last Orders," a bittersweet portrait of aging that reunited him with Mirren.

Others were panned, such as limp Spice Girls vehicle "Spice World" and video game-based dud "Super Mario Bros," which Hoskins described as his worst film experience.

He appeared in Francis Ford Coppola's musical "The Cotton Club," starred alongside Cher in "Mermaids," played pirate Smee in Spielberg's "Hook" and was FBI boss J. Edgar Hoover in "Nixon."

In the World War II thriller "Enemy at the Gates," starring Jude Law, he played Nikita Khrushchev of the Soviet Union. Law, whose friendship with Hoskins predated the film, recalled him as "a brilliant actor and a very sweet man. Great spirit. And he will be much missed."

Hoskins never lost his down-to-earth quality, once saying that he would never accept a knighthood.

He told The Guardian in 2010 that acting allowed him "to act out all the feelings and emotions that you shouldn't have. If I didn't get rid of it all, I'd be in a terrible state."

Yet he was famously funny and self-deprecating. Hoskins once recalled how he was put on standby to play Al Capone in Brian De Palma's "The Untouchables," until Robert De Niro agreed to take the role. The director sent Hoskins a check for 20,000 pounds to thank him for his time.

"I phoned him up and I said 'Brian, if you've ever got any other films you don't want me in, son, you just give me a call,'" Hoskins said.

In 2012 Hoskins announced that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and was retiring from acting.

His last role was as one of the seven dwarves in "Snow White & The Huntsman," starring Kristen Stewart.

He is survived by his wife Linda and children Alex, Sarah, Rosa and Jack. They said in a statement: "We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Bob."

Gwen Stefani Joins The Next Season Of NBC’s The Voice – Confirmed By Christina Aguilera

NBC’s popular music show The Voice is smack dab in the middle of their current season featuring celebrity coaches Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Shakira, and Usher. The Voice likes to alternate their celebrity coaches and switch it up from time to time, but according to recent reports they are throwing a brand new judge into the mix – Gwen Stefani!

The Voice is set to begin taping their next season in June, and coach alum Christina Aguilera was slated to star in the next season, however Aguilera would be very pregnant by then. We have been speculating for months now whether NBC would hire a different coach for the gig and who it may be.

Rumors were circulating the internet that the network was trying to land singer Gwen Stefani as a coach, and Stefani’s debut on the show was confirmed. This morning Aguilera tweeted, “So excited to have you join #TheVoice squad @GwenStefani! Welcome to our crazy fam! Kisses- xoxo #blondesdoitbest.”

So, it’s official the next season of The Voice will feature Adam Levin, Blake Shelton, and guest coaches Gwent Stefani and Pharell (Pharrell was confirmed weeks ago). Gwen is actually the perfect candidate for a position on The Voice, the pop-singer has been releasing hits since the 90’s when she was the front-woman of the popular band No Doubt.

Are you excited to see Gwen Stefani and Pharrell appear on the next season of NBC’s The Voice? Will you be tuning in, or not tuning in because of Gwen?

Records Reveal The NAACP Accepted Multiple Grants From Donald Sterling Over The Years

Leon Jenkins, NAACP LA Chapter President, is said to have accepted multiple grants (and protection from the press) from the charitable foundation of Clippers owner, Donald Sterling (Source: NBA.com)

*As the news of Clippers owner Donald Sterling‘s racism continues to take over America following racist remarks made on tape and published by TMZ this past weekend, the plot continues to thicken.

We have learned that the NAACP has snatched the Lifetime Achievement Award he was set to receive from them in an upcoming ceremony; which was scheduled prior to the racist rant, and justified by NAACP’s admission that Sterling had always been kind and given hundreds of game tickets to local school children in the community.

But now, we learn the civil rights organization was actually being financially supported by Sterling; accepting multiple grants over a period of several years from the Los Angeles Clippers owner, and even publicly defended Sterling even after some in the African-American community complained about his alleged racism.

This, according to political reporter, Patrick Howley, who says Sterling personally awarded Leon Jenkins, president of the NAACP’s Los Angeles chapter, with multiple grants through his Donald T. Sterling Charitable Foundation. The organization also defended Sterling in the press.

NAACP’s LA chapter was financially supported by Sterling’s foundation, records reveal. Jenkins, representing the NAACP, received a grant from Sterling’s foundation at the 2013 Donald T. Sterling Charitable Foundation Gala just four months ago (see picture above), where Jenkins was photographed accepting his award from Sterling.

The NAACP’s national organization condemned Sterling’s alleged remarks Saturday, and the NAACP’s LA chapter ultimately decided not to present Sterling with the 2014 lifetime achievement award it planned to give him at an event also honoring Al Sharpton and Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti.

“If these allegations are proven true, we are extremely disappointed in Mr. Sterling,” said a spokesman for the NAACP California State Conference.

“As the investigation is in progress, we urge the LA Branch of the NAACP to withdraw Donald Sterling from the honoree list at its upcoming Gala. We also suggest that African Americans and Latinos should honor his request and not attend the games,” the NAACP stated after Sterling’s racist remarks were published.

This proves to be a major about-face by the NAACP who is said to have turned a deaf ear to community activists and other minorities who attempted to “out” Sterling and his racism when the organization first awarded him in 2009.

“We can’t speak to the allegations, but what we do know is that for the most part [Sterling] has been very, very kind to the minority youth community,” Jenkins said in May 2009. “Over the last ten years or so, 1000 to 2000 at risk youth have been able to come to live Clippers games, those who have never seen a pro basketball game before,” Jenkins said.

Kandi Burruss married Todd Tucker earlier this month, in what she described as the wedding of her dreams. The newlyweds will now be giving viewers a glimpse at their big day (and the journey to it) in their new special series, The Real Housewives of Atlanta: Kandi’s Wedding.

As planning gets underway for their lavish Coming to America themed ceremony, Kandi and Todd are at odds about him signing a prenup. Mama Joyce, who hasn’t been shy about expressing her disapproval for Todd, gets into an argument with his mom after saying some negative things while they all have dinner.. and Todd’s mom quickly lets her know, “You got the wrong one now, b*tch.”

Viewers will also get a look into the both the bachelor and bachelorette parties, the rehearsal dinner attended by Tiny, Fantasia, and Rasheeda, and of course their wedding day.

Get a sneak peek at the action below..

To watch Kandi and Todd meet at the altar, tune in to the show - which premieres Sunday, June 1st at 8 p.m. EST on Bravo.

Taraji P. Henson SIZZLES In VOGUE Italia

Taraji P. Henson stars in a sizzling pictorial (shot by Itaysha Jordan) for VOGUE Italia. In the accompanying interview, Taraji reveals her most challenging role, who's been influential in her life and what it's like being a Black woman in Hollywood. Here are the highlights:

What is the most challenging aspect of being an actress?

The most challenging aspect of being an actress is being a single mother while navigating my career. I am a mother first.

What is the most rewarding part of being an actress?

The most rewarding part of being an actress is having my performance touch or inspire my audience.

What has been your most challenging role to date and why?

The most challenging role was that of Queenie in The Curious case of Benjamin Button because of the challenges of the aging process. My Mom Bernice and my Grandmother Patsy were my inspirations.

Who were the most instrumental people in your career?

The most instrumental people in my career are my business team that supports me. That starts with my long-term manager Vincent Cirrincione. You need to know the people in your life are looking out for you and have your very best interests at heart.

What did you study at Howard University?

I am a proud graduate of Howard University where I majored in Theatre Arts.

Where did you study acting?

I was fortunate to have incredible teachers and mentors at Howard and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything. That training prepared me well for the journey ahead.

How was it working with Idris Elba?

Working with Idris Elba is so terrible because he’s so hard to look at !!! Idris is a wonderful human being. We have great chemistry and have become the closest of pals. He flew from London to see my play in Los Angeles. We truly support each other and I'm so excited about our movie coming out in September No Good Deed.

What changes have you seen for actresses of color in the industry over the past 5-10 years?

In the last 10 years I have seen more opportunities for actresses of color but there is still a long way to go.

What changes would you like to see?

I would like to see films that mimic my everyday life and those of my friends. I would like casting to reflect all of the nationalities and all of the colors that make up our lives.

What does your beauty regime look like?

It’s important to keep my hair healthy and strong so I wrap it every night. I give my face a rest from make-up when I can. I make sure I wash my face every night before bed and moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.

Who are your style icons?

My style icons are Diana Ross, Cher and Cate Blanchett.

More gorgeous pics:

Hot!!!

Zac Efron and Seth Rogen: "Neighbors" Premiere Pals

Coming together to show off their work, Zac Efron and Seth Rogen showed up at the premiere of "Neighbors" on Monday night (April 28) in Westwood, CA.

Donning suits, the co-stars obliged shutterbugs and many fanswww.rantlifestyle.comfans alike as they made their way to the Regency Village Theater.

Per the synopsis: "A couple with a newborn baby face unexpected difficulties after they are forced to live next to a fraternity house."

Directed by Nicholas Stoller, the comedy opens in theaterswww.rantlifestyle.comtheaters nationwide on May 9.

Chrisette Michele Takes Over the Beautiful Textures Booth at the World Natural Hair Show!

Chrisette Michele took over the Beautiful Textures booth and inspired the ladies to embrace their natural hair and performed her hot music while looking good!

Check out the details. Beautiful Textures dominated the World Natural Hair Show in Atlanta. The naturalista event was held at the Georgia International Convention Center (2000 Convention Center Concourse), the two-day experience was a hit with attendees and featured superstar recording artist, Chrisette Michele.

Beautiful Textures showcased an amazing display of products, hair demonstrations and a ton of free giveaways, both days featured celebrity hair stylist, Felicia Leatherwood, and master hair stylist, Pam Hogan, who educated attendees on the new Texture Manageability System (TMS) and Dream Kids products.

Strength of Nature Global Brand Manager, Camila Crews, greeted an awaiting crowd and introduced Chrisette Michele who took to the stage to share her enthusiasm of being a naturalista. Afterward, Chrisette sang her hit single, “A Couple of Forevers,” and participated in a special meet and greet where she signed autographs and took pictures with her fans.

*Never let it be said that first lady, Michelle Obama, won’t at least attempt to be accommodating.

After parents and students in Topeka, Kansas got miffed over seating arrangements at the upcoming senior graduation ceremony where the first lady was invited to speak, a solution has been reached that should make all parties involved a lot happier: Mrs. Obama will now address the high school graduation class a day earlier, according to the Associated Press.

As The Root reported last week, the Topeka Public School District had invited the first lady to speak on May 17 at a combined ceremony involving five schools and commemorating the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Brown v. Board of Education; a decision that struck down racial segregation in public schools.

Now, under the new plan, Michelle Obama will speak on May 16 at a “senior recognition day” ceremony in the same 8,000-seat arena where the combined ceremony was to be held, AP reports. The five schools will now conduct separate graduation exercises. And without security concerns for the first lady, seating will not be limited, the report says.

Maria Cristina González Noguera, Obama’s communications director, said the first lady wants everyone to have the opportunity to attend a graduation ceremony.

“Once we learned about the concerns of some students, we were eager to find a solution that enabled all of the students and their families to celebrate the special day,” she told the AP

Nelly & Miss Jackson Caught Courtside At The Miami Heat Game

Well, well, well… Tsk, Tsk… Look what we have here… We told you on Sunday that Miss Jackson and Nelly were together in St. Martin for a festival that Nelly was performing at…. Now these two were spotted together sitting court side at the Miami Heat Charlotte Bobcats game…

Even though she took no pictures while away in St. Martin, but you can tell Nelly was not by himself and Miss Jackson’s instagram was dry the whole weekend…… I wonder if this relationship will affect Mayweather’s fight? I mean he does want her back by the things he and his crew post on Instagram about her…. He has made it clear that she is his better half and that he loves her…

Now seeing her with another man.. Nelly of all people….We hear the couple was spotted at the Ritz Carlton in Charlotte they pulled up in driving a white Ferrari with red interior and NC plates………

Robin Roberts REVEALS On “Ellen” Why She Waited Almost 10 Years To Come Out Of The Closet

Robin Roberts revealed she was in a same-sex relationship back in December. Now the “GMA” host is opening up on why she waited so long to go public with her relationship with girlfriend Amber Laign. Find out what she said inside…

Earlier this year, “GMA” anchor Robin Roberts opened up about her not-so-secret 9-year relationship with massage therapist Amber Laign.

Despite going through very public health challenges (breast cancer and myelodysplastic syndrome) and the death of her mother, Robin was able to keep her relationship a secret until one day she decided to take “one for the team”. She revealed via her Facebook that she was happily in love with a another woman saying,” I have never been happier or healthier than I am right now."

But why was it a secret for so long?

In an interview airing on “The Ellen Degeneres Show” today, 53-year-old Robin revealed she waited so long because her girlfriend is not a fan of the spotlight.

She said,

"Well because she doesn’t really like spotlight. Like she’s here right now. I can’t get her to come out. You know not everyone wants to be in the spotlight."

"She’s very, very supportive and she’s been right there beside me every step of the way and it was actually the end of the year on my Facebook and I had been thanking my doctors, and nurses, my sister who was a perfect match and rightfully so."

"I asked her I said, I really want, I want to say thank you and in the book she takes the caregivers point of view and it’s really funny that sometimes we didn’t see the same thing eye to eye and I thought it was very powerful for people because there’s so many that care for their loved ones and so to see her side of it and to see my side of it it was pretty interesting."

How sweet. Robin then went on to explain how she met the love of her life on a blind date:

“Mutual friends set us up on a blind date. I liked the fact that she had no idea who I was. She rarely followed sports, so she never saw me on ESPN, and her office mates at the time watched a different morning show … ouch!”

The “GMA” host has penned a new book titled Everybody's Got Something, and in the book she has a page dedicated to her girlfriend who stood by her side through everything she has had to endure.

Sweet!

Jordin Sparks is leggy in bright orange frock and pink heels at premiere of film Mom's Night Out

She won American Idol at the tender age of 17.

Fast forward seven years, and Jordin Sparks is the picture of sophistication.

The 24-year-old hit a fashion high note in a vibrant orange frock paired with pink heels at the premiere of Mom's Might Out in Los Angeles

The singer showed off her slender frame in the short dress, which nipped in at the waist and flared at the skirt.

Jordin wore her shoulder-length hair curly, with one side pulled back with a clip.

She sported a glowing complexion, enhancing her natural beauty with a slick of nude lipstick and black eyeliner. Looking Fabulous!

AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES

‘Gnomeo & Romeo’

Nothing wrong with wanting to chill out in a garden all day. #Twinning